Dictionary for the petroleum industry

pdfMachine
A pdf writer that produces quality PDF files with ease!
Produce quality PDF files in seconds and preserve the integrity of your original documents. Compatible across
nearly all Windows platforms, if you can print from a windows application you can use pdfMachine.
Get yours now!

point in a plane obtained by measuring absolute porosity n: the percentage of the
AAPG abbr: American Association of parallel to the x-axis. Compare ordinate. total bulk volume of a rock sample that is
Petroleum Geologists. absolute (abs) adj: independent or composed of pore spaces or voids. See
AAPL abbr: American Association of unlimited, such as an absolute condition, or porosity.
Petroleum Landmen. completely unadulterated, such as alcohol. absolute pressure n: total pressure
abaft adv: 1. toward the stem of a ship or absolute density n: the density of a solid or measured from an absolute vacuum. It
mobile offshore drilling rig. 2. behind. 3. liquid substance at a specified temperature. equals the sum of the gauge pressure and
farther aft than. See aft. Sometimes referred to as true density or the atmospheric pressure. Expressed in
abandon v: to cease producing oil and gas density in vacuo. See density. pounds per square inch.
from a well when it becomes unprofitable or absolute dynamic viscosity n: the force in absolute temperature scale n: a scale of
to cease further work on a newly drilled well dynes that a stationary flat plate with a temperature measurement in which zero
when it proves not to contain profitable surface area of 1 square centimetre exerts degrees is absolute zero. On the Rankine
quantities of oil or gas. Several steps are on a similar parallel plate 1 centimetre away absolute temperature scale, which is based
involved: part of the casing may be removed and moving in its own plane with a velocity on degrees Fahrenheit. water freezes at
and salvaged; one or more cement plugs of 1 centimetre per second, the space 492' and boils at 672". On the Kelvin
are placed in the borehole to prevent between the plates being filled with the absolute temperature scale, which is based
migration of fluids between the different liquid in question. It is a measure of the on degrees Celsius, water freezes at 273°
formations penetrated by the borehole; and resistance that the liquid offers to shear. and boils at 373°. See absolute zero.
the well is abandoned. In most oil-producing absolute error n: the difference between the absolute viscosity n: the property by which
states, it is necessary to secure permission result of a measurement and the true value a fluid in motion offers resistance to shear
from official agencies before a well may be of the measured quantity as determined by and flow. Usually expressed as newton
abandoned. means of a suitable standard device. seconds/metre.
abandoned well n: a well not in use absolute humidity n: the amount of absolute zero n: a hypothetical temperature
because it was a dry hole originally, or moisture present in the air. It may be at which there is a total absence of heal
because it has ceased to produce. Statutes expressed in milligrams of water per cubic Since heat is a result of energy caused by
and regulations in many states require the metre of air. Compare relative humidity. molecular motion, there is no motion of
plugging of abandoned wells to prevent the molecules with respect to each other at
absolute kinematic viscosity n: the value
seepage of oil, gas, or water from one absolute zero.
obtained when the absolute dynamic
stratum of underlying rock to another. absorb v: I. to take in and make part of an
viscosity is divided by the density
abandonment n: termination of a (expressed in grams per cubic centimetre) existing whole. 2. to recover liquid hydro-
jurisdictional sale or service. Under Section of the liquid at the temperature concerned. carbons from natural or refinery gas in a
7(b) of the Natural Gas Act, the Federal gas- absorption plant. The wet gas enters
absolute mass n: the expression of a fluid's
Energy Regulatory Commission must the absorber at the bottom and rises to die
weight (mass) in terms of its weight in a
determine in advance that the "present or top, encountering a stream of absorption oil
vacuum.
future public convenience and necessity" or (a light oil) travelling downward over bubble-
absolute open flow n: the maximum flow
depletion of gas supplies requires cap trays, valve trays, or sieve trays. The
rate that a well could theoretically deliver
termination. light oil removes, or absorbs, the heavier
with zero pressure at the face of the
abandonment pressure n: the average liquid hydrocarbons from the wet gas. See
reservoir.
reservoir pressure at which an amount of bubble-cap tray, sieve tray, valve tray.
gas insufficient to permit continued
absolute ownership n: the theory that
economic operation of a producing gas well
minerals such as oil and gas are fully owned
is expelled. abd, abdn abbr: abandoned;
in place before they are extracted and
used in drilling reports.
reduced to possession. Despite this theory,
abnormal pressure n: pressure exceeding title to oil and gas may be lost by legitimate
or falling below the pressure to be expected drainage and by the rule of capture. Also
at a given depth. Normal pressure increases called ownership in place. See rule of
approximately 0.465 pow1ds per square capture.
inch per foot of depth or 10.5 kilopascals per absolute permeability n: a measure of the
metre of depth. Thus, normal pressure at ability of a single fluid (such as water, gas,
1,000 feet is 465 pounds per square inch; at or oil) to flow through a rock formation when
1,000 metres it is 10,500 kilopascals. See the formation is totally filled (saturated) with
pressure gradient. that fluid. The permeability measure of a
aboard adv: on or in a ship, offshore drilling rock filled with a single fluid is different from
rig, helicopter, or production platform. the permeability measure of the same rock
abrasion n: wearing away by friction.
filled with two or more fluids. Compare
ABS abbr: American Bureau of Shipping.
effective permeability, relative permeability.
abscissa n: the horizontal coordinate of a pdfMachine
Produce quality PDF files in seconds and preserve the 1integrity of your original documents. Compatible across
Get yours now!

Absorbent 2 acidity

Absorbent n: see absorption oil. title and other relevant documents. inch). The fluid is used to actuate the
absorber n: 1. A vertical, cylindrical Compare stand- up title opinion. blowout preventer stack.
vessel that recovers heavier abstract company n: a private accuracy n: the ability of a measuring
hydorcarbons from a mixture of company in the business of preparing instrument to indicate values closely
predominantly lighter hydrocarbons. abstracts of title approximating the true value of the
Also called absorption tower. 2. A vessel and performing related services. Also quantity measured.
in which gas is dehydrated by being called abstract plant. accuracy curve of a volume meter n:
bubbled through glycol. See absorb. abstract of title n: a collection of all of a plot of meter factor as a function of
the recorded instruments affecting title to flow rate used to evaluate the meter's
a tract of land. Compare base abstract. performance. See flow rate, meter
abstract plant n: see abstract company. factor:
abyssal adj: of or relating to the bottom acetic acid n: an organic acid
waters of the ocean. compound sometimes used to acidise
Ac abbr: altocumulus. oil wells. It is not as corrosive as other
AC abbr: alternating current. acids used in well treatments. Its
accelerated aging test n: a procedure chemical formula is C2~O2' or
whereby a product may be subjected to CH3COOH.
intensified but controlled conditions of acetylene welding n: a method of
heat, pressure, radiation, or other joining steel components in which
variables to produce, in a short time, acetylene gas and oxygen are mixed in
the effects of long- time storage or use a torch to attain the high temperatures
under normal conditions. acceleration necessary for welding. As an early type
stress n: when a crane is hoisting a of welding (it was also called
load, the additional force the load oxyacetylene welding), its primary
imposes on a wire rope or a sling when disadvantage was the seepage of
the load's speed increases. molten weld material onto the interior
accelerator n: a chemical additive that surface of the pipe, often leading to
absorber capacity n: the maximum
reduces the setting time of cement. See corrosion problems.
volume of natural gas that can be
cement, cementing materials. ACGIH abbr: American Conference of
processed through an absorber at a
accelerometer n: an instrument that Governmental and Industrial Hygienists.
specified absorption oil rate, temperature,
detects changes in motion or measures acid n: any chemical compound. one
and pressure without exceeding pressure
acceleration. accessory equipment n: element of which is hydrogen, that
drop or any oilier operating limitation.
any device that enhances the utility of a dissociates in solution to produce free
absorption n: 1. the process of sucking
measurement system, including hydrogen ions. For example,
up, taking in and making part of an
readouts, registers, monitors, and hydrochloric acid. HCI, dissociates in
existing whole. Compare adsorption. 2.
liquid- or flow-conditioning equipment. water to produce hydrogen ions, H+,
the process in which short wave
accrete v: to enlarge by the addition of and chloride ions, CI-. This reaction is
radiation is retained by regions of the
external parts or particles. expressed chemically as HCI + H+ + CI-
earth.
accumulate v: to amass or collect. . See ion.
absorption dynamometer n: a device
When acid brittleness n: see hydrogen
that measures mechanical force. The
oil and gas migrate into porous embrinlement.
energy measured is absorbed by
formations, the quantity collected is acid clay n: a naturally occurring clay
frictional or electrical resistance.
called an accumulation. that,
absorption gasoline n: the gasoline
accumulator n: 1. a vessel or tank that after activation, usually with acid, is
extracted from natural gas by putting
receives and temporarily stores a liquid used mainly as a decolourant or refining
the gas into contact with oil in a vessel
used in a continuous process in a gas agent, and sometimes as a
and subsequently distilling the gasoline
plant. See drip accumulator. 2. on a desulphuriser, coagulant, or catalyst.
from the heavier oil.
drilling rig, the storage device for acid fracture v: to part or open
absorption oil n: a hydrocarbon liquid
nitrogen-pressurised hydraulic fluid, fractures in productive hard limestone
used to absorb and recover components
which is used in operating the blow out formations by using a combination of oil
from natural gas being processed. Also
preventers. See blowout preventer and acid or water and acid under high
called wash oil.
control unit. pressure. See formation fracturing.
absorption plant n: a plant that
acid gas n: a gas that forms an acid
processes natural gas with absorption
when mixed with water. In petroleum
oil.
production and processing, the most
absorption-refrigeration cycle n: a
common acid gases are hydrogen
mechanical refrigeration system in which
sulphide and carbon dioxide. Both
the refrigerant is absorbed by a suitable
cause corrosion, and hydrogen sulphide
liquid or solid. The most CODlD1only
is very poisonous.
used refrigerant is ammonia; the most
acidity n: the quality of being acid.
commonly used absorbing medium is
Relative acid strength of a liquid is
water. Compare compression-
measured by pH. A liquid with a pH
refrigeration cycle. accumulator bottle n: a bottle-shaped below 7 is acid. See pH.
absorption tower n: see steel cylinder located in a blowout
absorber. preventer control unit to store nitrogen
abstract-based title opinion n: a title pdfMachine
and hydraulic fluid under pressure
opinion based on a complete abstract of
A pdf writer that produces quality PDF square
(usually at 3,(XK)pounds per files with ease!
Get yours now!

acidise 3 adjustable choke

activation n: a reaction in which an element
acidise v: to treat oil-bearing limestone or has been changed into an unstable isotope
other formations with acid for the purpose of during bombardment by neutrons.
increasing production. Hydrochloric or other active mud tank n: one of usually two,
acid is injected into the formation under three, or more mud tanks that holds drilling
pressure. The acid etches the rock, enlarging mud that is being circulated into a borehole
the pore spaces and passages through which during drilling. They are called active tanks
the reservoir fluids flow. Acid also removes because they hold mud that is currently
formation damage by dissolving material being circulated.
plugging the rock surrounding the wellbore.
The acid is held under pressure for a period actual pressure n: the sum of the ideal
acoustic signatures n pl: the characteristic pressure and the dynamic pressure.
of time and then pumped out, after which the
patterns for various degrees of cement
well is swabbed and put back into production. actual residue gas remaining n: the volume
bonding between the casing and the
Chemical inhibitors combined with the acid of gas remaining after processing in a plant.
borehole that appear on an oscilloscope
prevent corrosion of the pipe. actual strength n: see breaking strength.
display when a sonic cement bond log is
acid recovery plant n: plant for the adapter kit n: a kit comprising a setting
made.
recovery of sulfuric acid from acid sludge. sleeve, adapter rod, and adjustment nut for
acoustic survey n: a well-logging method in setting drillable or permanent tools on
acid sludge n: material of high specific which sound impulses are generated and wireline or by using hydraulic setting tools.
gravity formed during the chemical refining transmitted into the formations opposite the
treatment of oils by sulphuric acid and adapter spool n: a joint to connect blowout
wellbore. The time it takes for the sound
usually separable by settling or preventers of different sizes or pressure
impulses to travel through the rock is
centrifuging. Also called acid tar. ratings to the casing head.
measured and recorded. Subsequent
acid stimulation n: a well stimulation interpretation of the record (log) permits additive n: 1. in general, a substance added
method using acid. See acidise. estimation of the rock's porosity and fluid in small amounts to a larger amount of
content. another substance to change some
acid tar n: see acid sludge.
acoustic well logging n: the process of characteristic of the latter. In the oil industry,
acid treatment n: a method by which recording the acoustic characteristics of additives are used in lubricating oil, fuel,
petroleum-bearing limestone or other subsurface formations, based on the time drilling mud, and cement. 2. in cementing, a
formations are put into contact with an acid required for a sound wave to travel a substance added to cement to change its
to enlarge the pore spaces and passages specific distance through rock. The rate of characteristics to satisfy specific conditions
through which the reservoir fluids flow. travel depends on the composition of the in die well. A cement additive may work as
formation, its porosity, and its fluid content. an accelerator, retarder, dispersant, or other
acid wash n: an acid treatment in which an
Also called sonic logging. reactant.
acid mixture is circulated through a wellbore
to clean it. acquired land n: land owned by the United adhesion n: a force of attraction that causes
acknowledgement n: a declaration or an States, acquired by deed or otherwise. Such molecules of one substance to cling to those
avowal of any act or fact made by a land has never been in the public domain or of a different substance.
signatory party to a document to a notary was in the public domain at one time and adiabatic change n: a change in the
public or other public official authorised to was later reacquired by purchase, volume, pressure, or temperature of a gas,
take an acknowledgement to give it legal condemnation, or donation. occurring without a gain or loss of heat.
effect. acreage contribution n: acreage owned in adiabatic compression n: compression of
acoustic log n: a record of the the vicinity of a test well being drilled by air or gas that exists when no heat is
measurement of porosity, done by another party and contributed to the driller of transferred between the air or gas and
comparing depth to the time it takes for a the well in return for information obtained surrounding bodies (such as the cylinders
sonic impulse to travel through a given from its drilling. The assignment of and pistons in a compressor). It is
length of formation. The rate of travel of the information is usually made on completion of characterised by an increase in temperature
sound wave through a rock depends on the the well. during compression and a decrease in
composition of the formation and the fluids it acre-foot n: a unit of volume often used in temperature during expansion.
contains. Because the type of formation can oil reservoir analysis, equivalent to the adiabatic expansion n: the expansion of a
be ascertained by other logs, and because volume (as of oil or water) necessary to gas, vapour, or liquid stream from a higher
sonic transit time varies with relative cover 1 acre to a depth of 1 foot pressure to a lower pressure with no change
amounts of rock and fluid, porosity can acre-ft abbr: acre-foot. in enthalpy of the stream.
usually be determined in this way.
across prep: over. The term usually relates adjustable choke n: a choke in which the
acoustic position reference n: a system conditions of fluid flow 00 me side of a piece position of a conical needle, sleeve, or plate
consisting of a beacon positioned on the of equipment to conditions on the opposite may be changed with respect to their seat to
seafloor to transmit an acoustic signal, a set side (e.g., a pressure drop across a vary the rate of flow; may be manual or
of three or four hydrophones mounted on separator). automatic. See choke.
the hull of a floating offshore drilling vessel
to receive the signal, and a position display ACSR abbr: aluminum cable steel- reinforced
unit to track the relative positions of the rig conductor.
and the drill site. Monitoring of the display ACT abbr: automatic custody transfer.
unit aids in accurate positioning of the rig activated charcoI n: a form of carbon
over the site. characterised by a high absorptive and
pdfMachine
adsorptive capacity for gases, vapours,
aIM1 colloidal solids.
Get yours now!

adjustable spacer sub 4 air cleaner

aeration n: the injection of air or gas into a setting. The process is sometimes called
adjustable spacer sub n: a sub run below
liquid. In the oil industry a common form of curing. See cure.
a dual or triple packer to permit the correct
aeration is the injection of natural gas into agency n: a federal entity such as a
space-out. See space-out.
reservoir liquids standing in a well. Aeration department, a bureau, a corporation, a
Adjustment n: the operation of bringing a
with natural gas reduces the density of the commission, or a division under the US
measuring instrument, such as a meter, into
liquids and allows declining reservoir government that is charged by Congress to
a satisfactory state of performance and
pressure to lift the liquids. See gas lift. administer, implement, and enforce US law.
accuracy.
administrative penalties n pi: penalties or aerial cooler n: see air-cooled exchanger. agglomerate n: the groups of larger
fines handed down by administrative aerial river crossing n: a river crossing individual particles usually originating in
agencies, such as the EPA. technique in which a pipeline is either sieving or drying operations.
administrator n: person appointed by the suspended by cables over a waterway or agglomeration n: the grouping of individual
court to administer the estate of someone attached to the girders of a bridge designed particles.
who dies without a will (intestate). to carry vehicular traffic.
aggregate n: a group of two or more
ADS abbr: atmospheric diving system. aerobic adj: requiring free atmospheric particles held together by strong forces.
adsorbent n: a solid used to remove oxygen for normal activity. Aggregates are stable with normal stirring,
components from natural gas that is being aerobic bacteria n pi: bacteria that require shaking, or handling; they may be broken by
processed. free oxygen for their life processes. Aerobic treatment such as ball milling a powder or
adsorption n: the adhesion of a thin film of a shearing a suspension.
bacteria can produce slime or scum, which
gas or liquid to the surface of a solid. Liquid accumulates on metal surfaces, causing agitator n: a motor-driven paddle or blade
hydrocarbons are recovered from natural gas oxygen-concentration cell corrosion. used to mix the liquids and solids in drilling
by passing the gas through activated char-
AESC abbr: Association of Energy Service mud.
coal, silica gel, or other solids, which extract
the heavier hydrocarbons. Steam treatment Companies. A-h abbr: ampere-hour.
AFE abbr: authority for expenditure. affiant n: AIME abbr: American Institute of Mining,
of the solid removes the adsorbed
the person who makes a sworn Metallurgical, and Petroleum Engineers.
hydrocarbons, which are then collected and
re-condensed. The adsorption process is statement.
air-actuated adj: equipment activated by
also used to remove water vapour from air or affidavit n: a written affirmation of fact made compressed air, as are the clutch and the
natural gas. Compare absorption. and sworn to before a notary public or other air-balanced pumping unit n: a beam
adsorption plant n: a plant that processes authorised official. The official signs a pumping unit on which the counterbalancing
natural gas with an adsorbent. certificate called a jurat, which states that is done by means of an air cylinder.
the affidavit was signed and sworn to before
ad valorem tax n: 1. a state or county tax
him or her.
based on the value of a property. 2. tax
imposed at a percent of a value. affiliated company n: a company that is
either directly or indirectly controlled and/or
advance payment agreement n: an
owned by another firm or company.
agreement between a producer and a
purchaser to make an advance payment for A-frame n: 1. a derrick or crane shaped like
gas to be delivered at a future date. the letter A and used to handle heavy loads.
advection fog n: a fog caused by the 2. an A-shaped openwork structure that is
movement of warm, moist air over a surface the stationary and supporting component of
with a temperature less than the dew point the mast of a jackknife rig and to which the
of the air. Also called sea fog. mast is anchored when it is in an upright or
drilling position. 3. the uppermost section of
adverse possession n: a method of air bit n: a roller cone bit that is specially
a standard derrick, shaped like the letter A
asserting and gaining title to property designed for air or gas drilling. It is very
and used as a support in lifting objects such
against other claimants, including the owner similar to a regular bit, but features screens
as the crown block to the water table.
of record. The claim through adverse over the bearings to protect them from
possession must include certain acts (as aft adv: toward or near the stem of a ship clogging with cuttings and thicker hardfacing
required by statute) over an uninterrupted or offshore drilling rig. on the shirttail to protect them from
interval of time. It must also be, in most aftercooler n: on a supercharged engine, a abrasive, high-velocity air or gas drilling
states, "open," "notorious," and "hostile." device, cooled by either air or by engine fluid.
aeolian adj: deposited by wind. coolant, that reduces the temperature of air cleaner n: a device installed on an
the engine's exhaust. It is necessary to cool engine's air intake to remove foreign
aeolian deposit n: a sediment deposited
the exhaust's temperature because the materials, such as dirt or dust, from the air
by wind.
exhaust drives the supercharger, which before it enters the engine.
aerated mud n: drilling mud into which air
forces air into the engine's intake manifold.
or gas is injected. Aeration with air or gas
The temperature of the supercharged air
reduces the density of the mud and allows
must be at an acceptable level; otherwise,
for faster drilling rates. The lighter aerated
the engine will run too hot. See
mud does not develop as much pressure
supercharger.
on bottom as a normal mud. The lower
afternoon tour (pronounced tower) n: see
pressure allows the cuttings made by the
evening tour.
bit to easily break away from the bit's
cutters; the cutters therefore always AGA abbr: American Gas
contact fresh, undrilled formation. Association.
pdfMachine
age v: to allow cement to mature, or reach
A pdf writer a stage harder than that of immediate
that produces quality PDF files with ease!
Get yours now!

air cleaner element 5 alkane

air cleaner element n: see air cleaner filter air hoist n: a hoist operated by compressed disengages from the flywheel gear. Air-
element. air; a pneumatic hoist. Air hoists are often motor starters are installed on large
air cleaner filter element n: the part of an mounted on the rig floor and are used to lift industrial engines like those used on a
engine's air cleaner that traps dust and dirt joints of pipe and other heavy objects. drilling rig.
particles in the intake air that passes through
air tube clutch n: a clutch containing an
the element. Filter elements are designed to
inflatable tube that, when inflated, causes
trap most, but not all, of the foreign material
the clutch to engage the driven member.
that may be in the air taken in by an engine.
When the tube is deflated, disengagement
(If the filter elements trapped all particles,
occurs.
they would have to be replaced too frequently
to be practical.) Some elements, after they air vapour eliminator n: a device used to
become clogged with dust, can be cleaned separate and remove gases from a liquid to
and reused; others must be discarded and be measured to prevent an error in liquid
replaced. measurement.
air-cooled exchanger n: an atmospheric fin alarm n: a warning device triggered by the
tube exchanger that utilises air for cooling. presence of abnormal conditions in a
Ambient air contacts the external fins by fan- machine or system. For example, a low-
forced or natural draft. Also called air-fin unit water alarm automatically signals when the
or aerial cooler. water level in a vessel falls below its preset
air-cut adj: having inadvertent mechanical air induction system n: the network of minimum. Offshore, alarms are used to warn
incorporation of air into a liquid system. devices by which air is taken into an engine personnel of dangerous or unusual
air diving n: diving in which a diver uses a for combustion in the cylinders. conditions, such as fires and escaping
normal atmospheric mixture of oxygen and air injection n: 1.the injection of air into a gases.
nitrogen as a breathing medium. It is limited reservoir in a pressure maintenance or an in aIidade n: a surveying instrument consisting
to depths less than 190 feet (58 metres) situ combustion project. 2. the injection of of sighting device, index, and reading or
because of the dangers of nitrogen narcosis; fuel into the combustion chamber of a diesel recording device.
however, dives with bottom times of 30 engine by means of a jet of compressed air.
minutes or less may be conducted to a aliphatic hydrocarbons n pi: hydrocarbons
maximum of 220 feet (67 metres). air-jacketed thermometer n: a glass-stem that have a straight chain of carbon atoms.
thermometer totally encased in a glass Compare aromatic hydrocarbons.
air drilling n: a method of rotary drilling that
sheath, which provides air space between
uses compressed air as the circulation aliphatic series n: a series of open-chained
the thermometer and the liquid in which the
medium. The conventional method of hydrocarbons. The two major classes are
unit is immersed.
removing cuttings from the wellbore is to d1e series with saturated bonds and the
use a flow of water or drilling mud. air knocking n: on a diesel engine, a series with unsaturated bonds.
Compressed air removes the cuttings with phenomenon that occurs when trapped air
alkali n: a substance having marked basic
equal or greater efficiency. The rate of in the fuel injection system enters the
(alkaline) properties, such as a hydroxide of
penetration is usually increased engine's cylinder with the fuel. The fuel-air
an alkali metal. See base.
considerably when air drilling is used; mixture ignites but, because of the extra air
however, a principal problem in air drilling is in the fuel, the engine cylinder misfires and alkaline (caustic) flooding n: a method of
the penetration of formations containing knocks or hammers. The problem should be improved recovery in which alkaline
water, since the entry of water into the corrected promptly to prevent damage to the chemicals such as sodium hydroxide are
system reduces the ability of the air to engine. injected during a water flood or combined
remove the cuttings. with polymer flooding. The chemicals react
air mass n: a body of air that remains for an
with the natural acid present in certain crude
air eliminator n: a part of a LACT unit in- extended period of time over a large land or
oils to form surfactants within the reservoir.
stalled ahead of the metering equipment to sea area with uniform heating and cooling
The surfactants enable the water to move
separate and remove mass volumes of air properties. The air mass will acquire
additional quantities of oil from the depleted
and gas from the fluid. characteristics (such as temperature and
reservoir. Compare chemical flooding,
air-fin unit n: see air-cooled exchanger. moisture content) of the underlying region.
polymer flooding, water flooding.
airfoil n: a body designed to provide a air mass source region n: an area over
alkalinity n: the combining power of a base,
desired reaction force when in motion relative which an air mass rests and develops
or alkali, as measured by the number of
to the surrounding air. temperature and moisture characteristics
equivalents of an acid with which it reacts to
air gap n: the distance from the normal level typical of that location.
form a salt. Any solution that bas a pH
of the sea surface to the bottom of the hull or air-motor starter n: on an engine, a device greater than 7 is alkaline. See pH.
base of an offshore drilling platform or rig. powered by compressed air that starts the
air gun n: 1. a hand tool that is powered alkane n: see paraffin.
engine. The compressed air, when allowed
pneumatically. 2. a chamber filled with to enter the starter motor by means of a
compressed air, often used offshore in valve, causes a gear on the starter to
seismic exploration. As the gun is trailed engage a gear attached to the outer edge of
behind a boat, air is released, making a low the engine's flywheel. The rotating starter
frequency popping noise, which penetrates gear moves the flywheel gear, which causes
the subsurface rock layers and is reflected the engine's pistons to move. If fuel, air,
by the layers. and, on spark-ignition engines, electric
Sensitive hydrophones receive the spark are present in the engine, the engine
reflections and transmit them to recording pdfMachine
will start after a few rotations. As soon as
equipment on the boat.
A pdf writer that produces quality starterfiles with ease!
the engine starts, the PDF gear
Get yours now!

alkanolamine 6 (ACGIH)

alluvial fan n: a large, sloping sedimentary would occupy at the pressure and
alkanolamine n: a chemical family of
deposit at the mouth of a canyon, laid temperature of the mixture.
specific organic compounds, including
down by intermittently flowing water,
monoethanolamine (MEA), diethanolamine A-mast n: an A-shaped arrangement of
especially in arid climates, and composed
(OEA), and triethanolamine (TEA). These upright poles, usually steel, used for lifting
of gravel and sand. The deposit tends to
chemicals, and proprietary mixtures heavy loads. See A-frame.
be coarse and unworked, with angular,
containing them and other amines, are used ambient conditions n pi: the conditions
poorly sorted grains in thin, overlapping
extensively for the removal of hydrogen (pressure, temperature, humidity, etc.) of
sheets. A line of fans may eventually
sulphide and carbon dioxide from other the medium surrounding the case of a
coalesce into an apron that grows broader
gases and are particularly adapted for meter, instrument, transducer, etc.
and higher as the slopes above are eroded
obtaining the low acid gas residuals that are
away. ambient pressure n: the pressure of the
usually specified by pipelines.
alkanolamine process n: a continuous medium that surrounds an object.
operation liquid process for removing acid ambient temperature n: the temperature of
gas from natural gas by using chemical the medium that surrounds an object.
absorption with subsequent heat addition to
strip the acid gas components from the Amerada bomb n: a wireline instrument for
absorbent solution. measuring bottomhole temperature or
pressure. It contains a clock-driven
alkyl n: a compound derived from an
recording section and either a pressure
alkane by removing one hydrogen atom.
element or a temperature element. It is thin
alkylation n: a process for manufacturing enough to pass downhole through small
components for 100-octane gasoline. An tubing.
alkyl group is introduced into an organic
compound either with or without a catalyst. American Association of Petroleum
Now usually used to mean alkylation of ALP abbr: articulated loading platform. Geologists (AAPG) n: a leading national
isobutane with propene, butenes, or industry organisation established to
alpha particle n: one of the extremely
hexenes in d1e presence of concentrated disseminate scientific and technical ideas
small particles of an atom that is ejected
sulphuric acid or anhydrous hydrofluoric and data in the field of geology as it relates
from a radioactive substance (such as
acid. to oil and natural gas exploration and
radium or uranium) as it disintegrates.
production. Its official publications are the
alligator grab n: a fishing device used to Alpha particles have a positive charge.
AAPG Bulletin and the AAPG Explorer:
pick up relatively small objects like
alternating current (A C) n: current in Address: P.O. Box 979; Tulsa, OK 74101;
wrenches that have fallen or have been
which the charge-flow periodically reverses (918) 584-2555.
dropped into the wellbore. The alligator
and whose average value is zero. Compare
grab's jaws are pinned open before the tool American Association of Petroleum
direct current.
is run into the well. The jaws snap shut Landmen (AAPL) n: an international
over the fish when contact is made. alternator n: an electric generator that trade organisation of landmen and related
produces alternating current. professionals. Its official publication is The
all-level sample n: in tank sampling, a
sample that is obtained by submerging a altocumulus (Ac) n: a white or gray mid- Landman. Address: 4100 Fossil Creek
stoppered beaker or bottle to a poinias level cloud that appears as closely Blvd.; Fort Worth, TX 76137; (817) 847-
near as possible to the draw-off level, then arranged rolls. This type of cloud is 7700.
opening the sampler and raising it at a rate composed of either ice crystals or water
American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) n:
that makes it about three-quarters full droplets.
US organisation that sets standards and
(maximum 85%) as it emerges from the altostratus n: a bluish or gravish layer of specifications for ships and ship
liquid. uniform mid-level clouds that cover large equipment manufactured in the United
allocation n: the distribution of oil or gas portions of the sky. This type of cloud is States. The organisation also makes
produced from a well per unit of time. In a composed of either ice crystals or water inspections during offshore rig
state using proration, this figure is droplets. construction and conducts periodic
established monthly by its conservation alumina n: aluminum oxide (Al202)' used as surveys to ensure that requirements for
agency. an abrasive, refractory, catalyst, and classification are maintained. Its official
allocation meter n: see tail gate. publications are Records of the American
adsorbent.
allonge n: see rider. Bureau of Shipping and ABS Activity Re-
aluminum bronze n: an alloy of copper and
allotted land n: Native American land port. Address: 2 World Trade Centre;
aluminum that may also include iron, 106th floor; New York, NY 10048; (212)
designated for use by a specific individual,
manganese, nickel, or zinc. 839- 5000.
although the title is still held by the United
States. aluminum cable steel-reinforced American Conference of Governmental
allowable n: the amount of oil or gas that conductor n: wire line made of braided and Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) n: a
can be produced legally from a well. In a aluminum wires, which is strengthened by professional multinational organisation of
state using proration, this figure is the addition of steel wires, and which persons employed by governmental units
established monthly by its conservation conducts electricity. responsible for full-time programs of
agency. See proration. aluminum stearate n: an aluminum salt of hygiene and worker health and protection.
alloy n: a substance with metallic proper- stearic acid used as a defoamer. See Address: 1330 Kemper Meadow Drive;
ties that comprises two or more elements stearate. Cincinatti, Ohio 45240; (513) 742-2020.
in solid solution. See ferrous alloy, non- Amagat-Leduc rule n: states that the
ferrous alloy. volume occupied by a mixture of gases
pdfMachine
equals the sum of the volumes each gas
Get yours now!

(AGA) 7 angle-control section

American Gas Association (AGA) n: a AMI abbr: area of mutual interest. floating drilling vessels are often secured
national trade association whose members amine n: any of several compounds over drill sites by large anchors like those
are US and Canadian distributors of employed in treating natural gas. Amines used on ships. For pipelines, a device that
natural, manufactured, and mixed gases. are generally used to remove hydrogen secures pipe in a ditch.
AGA provides information on sales, sulphide from water solutions and carbon anchor buoy n: a floating marker used in a
finances, utilisation, and all phases of gas dioxide from gas or liquid streams. spread mooring system to position each
transmission and distribution. Its official ammeter n: an instrument for measuring anchor of a semi-submersible rig or drill
publications are AGA Monthly and electric current in amperes. ship. See spread mooring system.
Operating Section Proceedings. Address:
amortisation n: I. the return of a debt anchoring system n: in pipeline
1515 Wilson Boulevard; Arlington, VA
(principal and interest) in equal annual construction, a combination of anchors used
22209; (703) 841-8400; fax (703) 841-
instalments. 2. the return of invested to hold a lay barge on station and move it
8406.
principal in a sinking fund. forward along the planned route. Lay-barge
American Institute of Mining, anchors may weigh in excess of 20 tons (18
Metallurgical, and Petroleum Engineers ampere (A) n: the fundamental unit of
tonnes), and a dozen or more may be
(AIME) n: parent group of the Society of electrical current; 1 ampere = 6.28 x 1018
needed.
Petroleum Engineers (SPE). See Society of electrons passing through the circuit per
Petroleum Engineer. Its official publication is second. One ampere delivers I coulomb in 1 anchor key n: a device on the deadline tie-
the Journal of Petroleum Technology. second. ampere-hour n: a unit of electricity down anchor used to secure the drilling line.
Address: 345 East 47th Street; New York, equal to the amount produced in 1 hour by a
anchor packer n: a packer designed for sit-
NY 10017; (212) 705-7695. flow of I ampere. See ampere.
ting on a pipe that rests on bottom, such as
ampere turn n: the number of turns in a a tail pipe or liner. See packer:
American National Standards
coil multiplied by the number of amperes of
Institute(ANSI) n: serves as clearinghouse anchor pattern n: the pattern of minute
current flowing through the coil.
for nationally coordinated voluntary projections from a metal surface produced
standards for fields ranging from information amplifier n: a device for increasing the by sandblasting, shot blasting, or chemical
technology to building construction. magnitude of a quantity such as an etching to enhance the adhesiveness of
Address: 11 W. 42nd Street, 13th floor; New electrical measurement signal. Amplifiers surface coatings.
York, NY 10036; (212) 642-4900. may be used to increase a transmitted and
anchor seal assembly n: a seal assembly
received measurement signal.
American Petroleum Institute (API) n: oil run on the production tubing that allows the
trade organisation (founded in 1920) that is amplitude modulation (am) n: modulation tubing to be landed properly in the casing's
the leading standardising organisation for of the amplitude of a radio carrier wave in seal bore when tubing weight alone is not
oilfield drilling and producing equipment. It accordance with the strength of the audio or sufficient to seat the tubing.
maintains departments of transportation, other signal.
anchor wash pipe spear n: a fishing tool
refining, marketing, and production in
amplitudes n pi: shapes and heights of the installed inside washover pipe to prevent a
Washington, DC. It offers publications
peaks in a spontaneous potential curve. fish stuck off bottom from falling to bottom
regarding standards, recommended
anaerobic adj: active in the absence of free during a washover. Slips on the anchor
practices, and bulletins. Address: 1220 L
oxygen. washpipe spear engage the inside of the
Street NW; Washington, DC 20005; (202)
washover pipe as the pipe travels downhole
682-8000. anaerobic bacteria n pi: bacteria that do
around the fish.
not require free oxygen to live or that are not
American Society for Testing and anchor weight n: a weight installed in a
destroyed by its absence. Under certain
Materials (ASTM) n: organisation that sets tank to which the guide wires or cables for
conditions, anaerobic bacteria can cause
guidelines for the testing and use of an automatic tank gauge float are attached
scale to form in water-handling facilities in
equipment and materials. Its publications to hold them taut and plumb.
oilfields or hydrogen sulphide to be
are ASTM Standardisation News, Book of
produced from sulphates. andesite n: finely crystalline, generally light-
Standards, Cement and Concrete
coloured extrusive igneous rock composed
Aggregates Journal, Composites analog adj: of or pertaining to an
largely of plagioclase feldspar with smaller
Technology & Research, Geo technical instrument that measures a continuous
amounts of dark-coloured minerals.
Testing Journal, Journal of Forensic variable that is proportional to another
Compare diorite.
Science, and Journal of Testing and variable over a given range. For example,
Evaluation. Address: 100 Barr Harbor; West temperature can be represented or anemometer n: an instrument for
Conshohocken, PA 19428; (610) 832-9500. measured as voltage, its analog. measuring wind speed in the atmosphere.
The most common types are cup, vane, and
American Society of Mechanical analog data n: information indicated by a
hot-wire anemometers.
Engineers (ASME) n: organisation whose continuous form, usually a needle or pointer
equipment standards are sometimes used moving across a dial face. Compare digital aneroid barometer n: a barometer
by the oil industry. Its official publication is readout. consisting of a flexible, spring-filled metal
Mechanical Engineering. Address: 345 East cell from which air has been removed and a
analog signal n: the representation of the
47th Street; New York, NY 10017; (212) mechanism that registers. See barograph.
magnitude of a variable in the form of a
705-7788; fax (212) 705-7856. angle-azimuth indicator n: see riser angle
measurable physical quantity that varies
American Society of Safety Engineers smoothly rather than in discrete steps. indicator.
(ASSE) n: organisation that establishes anchor n: a device that secures, or fastens, angle-control section n: the part of a
safety practices for several industries. Its equipment. In producing wells with sucker groove on the drawworks drum that
publications are Professional Safety and rod pumps, a gas anchor is a special changes direction. Grooves run parallel to
Society Update. Address: 1800 East section of perforated pipe installed below each other, except in the angle-control
Oakton; Des Plaines, IL 60018-2187; (847) the pump. It provides a space for gas to section, where each groove is machined at
699-2929. pdfMachine
break out of the oil. In offshore drilling,
Get yours now!

angle of deflection 8 anoxia

a slight angle. This angled part of the
groove causes the wire rope being spooled
onto the drum to change direction so that
the next wrap of rope on the drum lies in
between the wraps of rope already on the
drum. Also called a crossover section.

angle of deflection n: in directional drilling,
the angle at which a well diverts from vertical;
usually expressed in degrees, with vertical
being 0'.
angular velocity n: a measure of the time
angle of deviation n: see drift angle. required for a flowing medium. such as a annular pressure n: fluid pressure in an
angle of dip n: the angle at which a fluid. to change its angular displacement. annular space, as around tubing within
formation dips downward from the horizontal. casing.
anhydrite n: the common name for
angle of drift n: see drift angle. anhydrous calcium sulphate. caS°4. annular production n: production of
anhydrous adj: without water. formation fluids through the production
angle of heel n: the angle in degrees that a casing annulus.
floating vessel inclines to one side or the aniline n: liquid chemical derived from
benzene or from benzene and ammonia. It is annular space n: the space between two
other.
used as a solvent and in the organic concentric circles. In the petroleum industry,
angle of loading n: in crane operations, synthesis of other substances. it is usually the space surrounding a pipe in
when a sling with two legs is attached to each aniline point n: the lowest temperature at the wellbore, or the space between tubing
end of a load, the slant or the angle the two which the chemical aniline and a solvent and casing, or the space between tubing and
legs make as measured from horizontal. A (such as the oil in oil-base muds) will mix the well bore; sometimes termed the annulus.
reduction in the strength of a sling must be completely. In general, the oil of oil-base
allowed for angles other than 90 degrees. muds should have an aniline point of at least
angle of wrap n: the distance that the brake 150"F (66"C) to obtain maximum service life
band wraps around the brake flange. from the rubber components in the mud
Drawworks have an angle of wrap of 270' or system.
more. anion n: 1. a negatively charged ion. 2. the
angle-stem assembly n: a type of ion in an electrolysed solution that migrates
thermometer used on oil tanks. The to the anode. See ion. Compare cation.
graduated part of the thermometer is angled annealed glass n: glass that has been
at least 90° from the temperature-sensitive treated with a heating and cooling process
portion. The angle conforms to the shell of that toughens it and reduces its brittleness.
the tank and permits easy reading of the
anniversary date n: the date, usually one
instrument.
year from the effective date of the lease, by
angle-stem thermometer n: a glass-stem which rentals must be paid to maintain the
thermometer in which the tail is bent at an lease in effect in the absence of drilling or
annular velocity n: the rate at which mud is
angle to the stem so that the tail can be production.
travelling in the annular space of a drilling
mounted in a horizontally disposed
annubar n: a gas measurement device that well.
thermowell, leaving the scale vertical for
consists of a mutiple-ported Pitot tube
greater ease of reading. annulus n: see annular space.
installed inside a pipe through which gas is
angle sub n: see bent sub. flowing; it is installed perpendicular to the anode n: 1. one of two electrodes in an
flow of gas. The length of the annubar is electrolytic cell; represented as the negative
angular misalignment n: one type of equal to the diameter of the pipe in which it terminal of the cell, it is the area from which
misalignment in a chain-and-sprocket drive. is installed. An annubar senses the electrons flow. In a primary cell, it is the
The shafts are not parallel to each other (they difference between total flowing pressure electrode that is wasted or eaten away. 2. in
form an angle) in either the horizontal or the and static pressure; gas volume is cathodic protection systems, an electrode to
vertical plane. This pulls the link plates on calculated from this difference. See Pitot which a positive potential of electricity is
one side tighter than those on the other side; tube. applied, or a sacrificial anode, which protects
thus, one side of the chain and sprockets a structure by forming one electrode of an
wears faster than the other. Link plates on annular adj: pertaining to the annulus. The
electric cell.
only one side of the chain break because of annulus is sometimes referred to as the
annular space. anomaly n: a deviation from the norm. In
fatigue.
angular unconformity n: an unconformity annular blowout preventer n: a large geology the term indicates an abnormality
valve, usually installed above the ram such as a fault or dome in a sedimentary
in which formations above and below are
not parallel. See unconformity. preventers, that forms a seal in the annular bed.
space between the pipe and the wellbore or,
anoxia n: an undersupply of oxygen
if no pipe is present, in the wellbore itself.
reaching the tissues of the body, possibly
Compare ram blowout preventet:
causing permanent damage or death. Also
called hypoxia.

pdfMachine
Get yours now!

ANSI 9 arenite

2 m
ANSI abbr: American National Standards pits at the University of Houston. The API Sw = aRw / O Rt
Institute. gamma ray unit is defined as 1/200 of the Archimedes's Principle n: the buoyant
difference in log deflection between two force exerted on a body suspended in a fluid
anticipated load n: (1) in designing or
zones of different gamma ray intensity. The is proportional to the density of the fluid.
ordering hoisting (lifting) equipment, the
test pit is constructed so that the average
maximum weight that the equipment will be Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR) n:
midcontinent shale will record about 100 API
able to safely lift. (2) on diesel electric rigs, nineteen million acres on Alaska's north-
gamma ray units.
the maximum amount of electric power that east coast that are believed to contain 600
the generators will have to produce to API gravity n: the measure of the density or million to 9 billion barrels (954 billion to 143
adequately power the rig. gravity of liquid petroleum products in the trillion litres) of oil. Opening of the area to oil
United States; derived from relative density exploration and production is the subject of
anticipated surface pressure n: pressure
in accordance with the following equation: much debate between environmentalists
expected to be measured at the surface
after a well is drilled and completed. and oil-industry personnel.
API gravity at 60°F =
[141.5 + relative density 60/60°F] -131.5 arctic submersible rig n: a mobile
anticlinal trap n: a hydrocarbon trap in
submersible drilling structure used in arctic
which petroleum accumulates in the top of API gravity is expressed in degrees, 1 D.
areas. The rig is towed onto the drilling site
an anticline. See anticline. API being equivalent to 1.0, the specific
and submerged during periods when the
gravity of water. See gravity.
anticline n: rock layers folded in the shape water is free of ice. All equipment below the
of an arch. Anticlines sometimes trap oil and API MPMS abbr: American Petroleum waterline is surrounded by a caisson to
gas. Compare syncline. Institute's Manual of Petroleum protect it from damage by moving ice. The
Measurement Standards. drilling deck has no square comers so that
anticyclonic wind n: the wind associated
API neutron unit n: the standard unit of moving ice can better flow around it. See
with a high-pressure area.
measurement for neutron logs. submersible drilling rig.
antifoam n: a substance used to prevent Standardisation of this unit results from the
foam by greatly increasing surface tension. calibration of each logging tool model in the
Compare defoamer. API neutron test pit at the University of
antifreeze n: a chemical added to liquid that Houston.
lowers its freezing point. Often used to
APO abbr: after payout; commonly used in
prevent water in an engine's cooling system
the land department of an oil company.
from freezing.
apparent compressibility n: the algebraic
antiknock compound n: a substance, such
sum of the actual compressibility of a liquid
as tetraethyl lead or other compounds,
and the volume change per unit volume of
added to the fuel of an internal-combustion
the confining container caused by a unit
engine to prevent detonation of the fuel.
change in pressure at constant temperature.
Antiknock compounds effectively raise the
arc weld v: to join metals by utilising the arc
octane rating of a fuel so that it burns apparent power n: the product of volts and
created between the welding rod, which
properly in the combustion chamber of an amperes in an AC circuit when voltage and
serves as an electrode, and a metal object.
engine. See octane rating, tetraethyl lead. current are measured separately. If voltage
The arc is a discharge of electric current
and current are not in phase, apparent
antiknock rating n: the measurement of across an air gap. The high temperature
power is greater than true power.
how well an automotive gasoline resists generated by the arc melts both the
detonation or pinging in a spark-ignition apparent viscosity n: the viscosity of a electrode and the metal, which fuse.
engine. drilling fluid as measured with a direct- area of mutual interest n: an area, usually
indicating, or rotational, viscometer. outlined on a plat attached to a farmout
antilog abbr: antilogarithm.
appraisal well n: a well drilled to confirm agreement or described in an exhibit, that
antilogarithm n: a second number whose and evaluate the presence of hydrocarbons allows both parties the first right of refusal
logarithm is the first number. See logarithm. in a reservoir that has been found by a wild- on leases acquired by either party after the
antiwhirl bit n: a drill bit, usually a cat well. agreement is executed.
polycrystalline diamond bit, that is designed APR abbr: a trademark name for an annular area rate clause n: see minimum lawful
to prevent the bit's drilling a spiral-shaped price clause.
pressure-responsive valve for a DST string.
hole because it whirls off centre as it rotates. arenaceous adj: pertaining to sand or
See bit whirl. apron n: 1. a body of coarse, poorly sorted sandy rocks (such as arenaceous shale).
sediments formed by the coalescence of
ANWR abbr: Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. arenite n: a sandstone in which less than
alluvial or detrital fans along the flanks of a
API abbr: American Petroleum Institute. 15% of the total volume is silt and clay.
mountain range. 2. a similar body of turbidite
API cement class n: a classification system sediments formed by the coalescence of
for oilwell cements, defined in API submarine debris fans along the base of the
Specification 10A. continental slope.
API-certified adj: said of a tool that meets aquifer n: 1. a permeable body of rock
the American Petroleum Institute's minimum capable of yielding groundwater to wells and
standard. springs. 2. the part of a water drive reservoir
API gamma ray unit n: the standard unit of that contains the water.
gamma ray measurement. Standardisation Archie's equation n: the formula for
of this unit results from the normalisation of evaluating the quantity of hydrocarbons in a
the detector-measurement systems of all pdfMachine
formation. The form of the equation depends
primary service companies in the A pdf writer that produces quality PDF files with ease!
API test on its specific use. The basic equation is-
Get yours now!

Dictionary for the petroleum industry

Dictionary for the petroleum industry

Recommandé

Recommandé

Contenu connexe

Similaire à Dictionary for the petroleum industry

Similaire à Dictionary for the petroleum industry (20)

Dictionary for the petroleum industry